ESG & Responsibility
Responsibility in the Way We Work
Our approach to people, professional conduct and environmental responsibility.
Executive search involves decisions that affect businesses, careers and livelihoods. It also involves trust: in how information is handled, how opportunities are represented and how people are treated throughout an assignment.
At Imperium, our approach to responsible business starts with that work. We believe in clear commitments to clients, considered engagement with candidates and accountability for the relationships entrusted to us.
This page brings together the principles behind our approach, our environmental priorities and the causes that matter to our founders. It also gives clients a starting point for understanding how we work when considering Imperium as a search partner.
People & Opportunity
Relevant assessment, respectful conversations and informed career decisions.
A search brief defines the capability a business needs. Our responsibility is to investigate where that capability exists and assess people against the requirements of the role, rather than rely on familiar names or assumptions about someone’s background.
We are committed to fair, impartial and non-discriminatory recruitment. We assess people on their skills, experience and ability to fulfil the role, without discrimination based on protected characteristics or personal circumstances unrelated to the work.
Market mapping helps us look beyond our immediate network. We consider relevant experience, transferable skills and different routes into a market, while distinguishing essential requirements from preferences that may unnecessarily narrow the search.
Candidates should understand the opportunity they are considering and retain control over their involvement. We explain what we can share, respect confidentiality and agree an employer introduction before passing on a CV or identifying information. We do not invent vacancies or use career conversations to extract leads about other hiring processes.
We also encourage an open discussion about practical requirements, including location, working arrangements and adjustments that would help someone participate in the process.
Professional Conduct & Accountability
Clear commitments, careful handling of information and responsibility for the work entrusted to us.
Our work involves commercially sensitive plans, confidential career discussions and information that can affect both businesses and individuals. We agree the scope of an assignment, how approaches will be managed and what can be disclosed before proceeding.
We work exclusively on a retained basis, with fees, responsibilities and client protections established at the outset. Where requirements change or a potential conflict arises, we discuss the implications with the client before agreeing the next step.
Confidentiality applies throughout the relationship. We agree introductions with candidates, manage disclosure carefully and respect the protections extended to our clients. Information shared for a search is not an invitation to approach someone’s customers, colleagues or other interview contacts for unrelated business development.
Accountability remains clear within the firm. Clients have a named contact responsible for the assignment, supported by our partners and research team. Questions or concerns can be raised directly with that contact or either founder.
Questions or concerns about our conduct can be raised directly with either founder.
Environmental Responsibility
Practical priorities, proportionate action and clear communication about our impact.
As a specialist search firm, our environmental priorities concern how we run the business, use resources and conduct work across international markets. Our aim is to make considered choices about travel, meetings and day-to-day operations, while maintaining the personal relationships our work depends on.
Our approach is to consider where remote meetings and digital working can serve an assignment effectively, and where an in-person conversation adds real value. Environmental responsibility should inform those decisions alongside the needs of clients, candidates and colleagues.
We also believe environmental claims should be specific and supported. Charitable contributions, carbon credits and reductions in our own operational emissions are different activities. Any commitments we publish should make clear what has been undertaken and the evidence behind it.
SUPPORTING
Supporting Communities.
Protecting Their Future.
Imperium supports Ripple Africa, a charity working with communities in Malawi to protect natural resources and create opportunities for a more sustainable future.
Its emphasis on practical, locally led projects reflects the connection between environmental protection and the livelihoods of the people who depend on it.
- Environment
- Tree planting, forest and fish conservation, and fuel-efficient cookstoves.
- Agriculture
- Practical projects supporting local food production and livelihoods.
- Education
- Support for schools, early years learning, literacy and community education.
- Healthcare
- Community health initiatives and support for local healthcare provision.
Tenacity. Vigour. Humility.
Questions About Our Approach?
Speak with us about responsible business practices and supplier requirements.
If you are considering Imperium for a search assignment and need further information about our working practices, confidentiality arrangements or the commitments described on this page, please get in touch.
Share any relevant supplier questionnaire or specific requirements so we can address your questions directly.
